“I don't know whose idea this was, but it is BRILLIANT!
Thank you” – Local Danforth Resident and Tree Adopter

Yes! Watering street trees – especially those that are newly
planted – is brilliant. When the
local community gets involved in tree stewardship we see tree survival and
health improve; we see people feeling more connected and engaged in their
neighbourhood; we see streets becoming more beautiful; and we see more and more
people caring for the urban forest. This is how we reach our vision of a
healthy, lush urban canopy. Together.

“I love the idea of
involving local business in the process of improving the neighbourhood and
environment. I think it brings more people on board and promotes community
spirit.” – Danforth Business Owner and Tree Adopter

Christine from Kato Animal Hospital waters one of her trees

Going into the Adopt-a-Street-Tree pilot project, we knew
that Torontonians had an appetite for community tree stewardship, but the
enthusiasm and dedication we encountered along the Danforth in such a short
period of time was beyond what we anticipated. With over 60 tree adopters
caring for over 100 trees, the potential for the new Danforth trees to flourish
is real.

The enthusiasm has been contagious, and other communities
across Toronto are asking how they can start Adopt-a-Street-Tree Programs of
their own. In the coming months, LEAF and the City of Toronto will release a
how-to guide for anyone interested in starting a similar initiative in their
neighbourhood.

If you would like to see an Adopt-a-Street-Tree program in
your community, LEAF wants to hear from you!

You can learn more about the Danforth pilot here. Contact erin[at]yourleaf.org if you have any
questions about the pilot or about starting your own program.